Persian Mackeral Rice Recipe

Welcome to Rice Cookers 101! Today, we’re excited to share with you a recipe for a classic Persian dish – mackerel rice. This flavorful rice dish is made with succulent pieces of fish, fragrant spices, and fluffy basmati rice, infused with saffron and a touch of tangy citrus. It’s a little taste of Iran right in your own kitchen, and with the help of your trusty rice cooker, it’s easier to make than you might think. So let’s get started and bring the rich flavors of Persian cuisine to your table tonight! We’ve made this persian mackeral rice recipe easy to follow 👨‍🍳. If you’re looking for our favorite rice cookers to make this recipe, check out our list of top rice cookers here.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati rice
• 2 mackerel fillets
• 1 onion, sliced
• 1/4 cup raisins
• 1/4 cup almonds
• 1/4 cup pistachios
• 1/4 cup dried cranberries
• 1/4 cup pomegranate aril
• 2 tbsp. olive oil
• 1 tsp. turmeric
• 1 tsp. cinnamon
• 1/2 tsp. cardamom
• 1/2 tsp. cumin
• 1/4 tsp. black pepper
• Salt to taste

Instructions

1. Place the rice in a bowl and wash it with cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Add cold water to the bowl and let the rice soak for 30 minutes. Drain the water and set the rice aside.
3. In a pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until fragrant and golden brown.
4. Add the mackerel fillets to the pot with the onion and sauté until cooked. Remove the mackerel fillets from the pan and set them aside.
5. To the same pan with the onions, add in the turmeric, cinnamon, cardamom, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Stir until fragrant.
6. Add the soaked rice to the pot with the onion and spices. Stir until the rice is coated with the spices and onions.
7. Add enough water to cover the rice by about 1/2 inch. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let the rice simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
8. Add the raisins, almonds, pistachios, cranberries, and pomegranate arils to the pot with the rice. Stir everything together until everything is combined and heated through.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork and transfer it to a serving platter. Top the rice with the cooked mackerel fillets and serve hot.

How long does persian mackeral rice last in the fridge?

Persian mackerel rice can be stored in the fridge for up to 4 days after cooking. It is important to cool the rice quickly by spreading it out in a shallow container and refrigerating it within 2 hours of cooking to prevent the growth of harmful bacteria. Store the rice in an airtight container in the fridge, and reheat it thoroughly before eating. It is best to use your judgement and if the rice smells or looks off, it should be discarded for safety reasons.

Low calorie persian mackeral rice recipe substitutions

To make this Persian Mackerel Rice recipe lower in calories, some substitutions can be made. First, the amount of olive oil can be reduced, or a lower-calorie oil like coconut oil or avocado oil can be used instead. Second, the amount of dried fruits and nuts can be reduced or eliminated, and replaced with lower-calorie options like fresh vegetables or fresh herbs. Third, the rice can be substituted with a lower-carbohydrate option like quinoa or cauliflower rice. Additionally, steaming or grilling the mackerel fillets instead of sautéing them in oil can reduce the calorie content. Finally, reducing the amount of salt used and maximizing the use of flavorful spices can further lower the calorie intake of the recipe while adding delicious flavors.

What to serve with a persian mackeral rice?

Persian mackerel rice is a flavorful dish that can be enjoyed on its own, but if you want to add some variety to your meal, there are several side dishes that will complement its bold flavors. One great option is a simple salad of mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumber, dressed with a tangy vinaigrette. You could also serve some grilled vegetables, such as zucchini and eggplant, seasoned with a blend of Mediterranean herbs. Hummus, baba ganoush, and tzatziki are other classic Mediterranean dips that would pair well with the rice. Finally, some warm pita bread or naan would be a tasty and filling addition to complete the meal.

Whats the best sauce for a persian mackeral rice?

The best sauce for Persian mackerel rice is a mixture of freshly squeezed lime juice, crushed garlic, chopped cilantro, and a pinch of salt. This sauce perfectly complements the rich and savory flavor of the mackerel and adds a refreshing and zesty taste to the dish. To prepare the sauce, simply combine the ingredients in a small bowl and mix well. Drizzle the sauce over the rice and mackerel and enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal.

Persian mackeral rice health benefits

Persian mackerel rice is a nutritious and healthy dish. Mackerel is a fatty fish rich in heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids and a good source of high-quality protein. Rice is a complex carbohydrate that provides energy and fiber to support digestive health. Additionally, this dish combines herbs like saffron, turmeric, and cinnamon, which are rich in antioxidants and have anti-inflammatory properties. However, it is important to note that Persian mackerel rice also contains added salt and oil, which should be consumed in moderation for those with high blood pressure or heart disease. For an even healthier option, you can try making a baked or grilled version of mackerel with steamed vegetables or a quinoa salad.